MenuNorthumberland County Council is undertaking a public consultation on a proposal to introduce a new countywide Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) relating to the consumption of alcohol in public places.
A PSPO is a legal measure available to local authorities under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. It is intended to help prevent activities in public spaces that have a detrimental impact on the quality of life of those living in, working in, or visiting an area. The proposed Order would replace the existing Alcohol PSPO when it expires in October 2026 and would apply across the administrative county of Northumberland. The consultation documents are attached for your information. The proposed Order would prohibit the consumption of alcohol where that consumption amounts to, or is reasonably likely to lead to, anti-social behaviour, nuisance or annoyance affecting those in the locality. It would also provide powers for police officers and authorised council officers to require individuals to cease drinking and surrender alcohol in appropriate circumstances. The proposal includes exemptions for licensed premises and other locations where the sale and consumption of alcohol is already authorised by law.
The consultation will run until 12 noon on Friday 9 October 2026. All comments and representations received during this period will be considered before a decision is made on whether to implement the proposed Order.
Further information, including copies of the consultation documents and details of how to respond, can be found on the Council’s website:
2 [PROPOSED Alcohol PSPO (2026)] Notice of Consultation (Alcohol PSPO)